Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has applauded the new captain Hardik Pandya, who has been impressive with his leadership skill in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).
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Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has applauded the new captain Hardik Pandya, who has been impressive with his leadership skill in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). While previewing Tuesday’s (May 10) match between the Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants in Pune. Shastri has stated that Hardik Pandya’s success as Titans captain didn’t surprise him at all as his game understanding is excellent. Pandya, who has made his debut as captain in the ongoing IPL edition, has done an impressive job. The all-rounder has led the Titans to eight victories in 11 matches, likely ensuring a top-two finish in the playoff race.
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While speaking on ESPNCricinfo’s Timeout, Ravi Shastri opined that Hardik Pandya has impressed him the most. The veteran also believes Pandya has an excellent understanding of the sport as well. He said: “Definitely Hardik Pandya because he hadn’t done it before. But everyone knew his reading and understanding of the game is strong. KL Rahul had already led India in One-day cricket; hence, there were expectations he would do a decent job.”
He further added: “Hardik might have surprised a lot of people, but he didn’t surprise me because I know his mindset and his understanding of white-ball cricket, especially, it’s very good. I would say right from the start and that’s why he has been fast-tracked. If we see, he didn’t take much time to settle into the Indian team. Hardik showed it straightaway that he belongs at the top level, which is commendable.”
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However, Hardik Pandya has also performed well with both the bat and ball, scoring 333 runs in ten games which came at an average of 41.62 with three half-centuries. With the ball, he has taken a decent nine wickets at 20.66, and an economy rate of 6.64 as well. When he was asked about the Titans’ concerns, Ravi Shastri said that they are too dependent on Hardik Pandya and he stated that Wriddhiman Saha needs more support at the top as well. He said: “I think it’s their batting as they’re too dependent on Hardik Pandya. They have been in trouble when Pandya didn’t click with the bat. It will be better if the top-order can chip in with more runs. Saha is playing exceptionally well and he is doing his job. If he gets more support, it will be better.”
